This deluxe box contains a treasure of Spanish cuisine. Cured Ibérico de Bellota paleta made from acorn-fed, pasture-raised pork is Spain's treasure. And Cinco Jotas is Spain's premiere brand. Included with the whole, bone-in shoulder are a whole cured lomo pork loin, forged Arcos knife and stainless-steel serving tongs monogrammed with the Cinco Jotas logo.
This shoulder (paleta) is a striking centerpiece for family gatherings or holiday parties. And the whole lomo is the perfect accompaniment, an acorn-fed pork loin seasoned with smoked paprika. Cut thin slices and serve on a warm platter along with a glass of sparkling cava or crisp sherry.
These Ibérico de Bellota meats by Cinco Jotas are perfectly cured and full of sweet, nutty flavors. They come from 100% pure-bred Ibérico pigs, a breed only found in Spain. To earn the premium 'bellota' status, these animals wander the oak-tree studded countryside of western Spain, called the 'dehesa.' In the fall they feast on sweet, antioxidant rich acorns, literally 'bellotas' in Spanish, feasting on up to 20 pounds of acorns a day. These acorns add a deep nutty flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture that are the signature of Ibérico de Bellota cured meats.
Your Cinco Jotas paleta is aged for up to two years, losing about half of its weight as the acorn flavored fat melts away. The resulting ham is deep red, marbled with golden fat. The paleta, or front leg, has an almost identical flavor to the larger hams.
Paletas are much smaller than jamones, and more difficult to carve due to the shape of the shoulder bone. Both paletas and jamones are covered in a thick layer of fat which protects the ham during curing.
Inside this deluxe gift box, your bone-in Cinco Jotas paleta is encased in a zippered cloth bag. A special Arcos jamón carving knife is included, long and flexible for cutting the perfect slices. Also included are a set of stainless-steel tongs with the logo of Cinco Jotas. Use them as you slice the ham to safely transfer slices to a serving platter. No holder is included. We recommend you use one to secure and slice your paleta properly.
For storage and slicing instructions for whole hams, see this page.